From Abbey Gate to today: How five years reshaped the Middle East and world policy - analysis

Five years have passed since the deadly attack at Abbey Gate in Kabul, Afghanistan, which claimed the lives of 13 American service members and injured 45 more along with over 160 civilians. On the anniversary, former President Donald Trump called for remembrance of the fallen and criticized the subsequent withdrawal under President Biden, describing it as a political decision that squandered hard-fought gains in Afghanistan.

The Wall Street Journal's documentary "The Path to Zero: The Withdrawal From Afghanistan" delves into the chaotic withdrawal process and its disastrous consequences. The film features interviews with key figures who witnessed the events, including diplomats, generals, and soldiers, who recount the unfolding tragedy and the psychological toll it took on the young Marines who manned the gates.

The rapid collapse of the Afghan army and the evacuation from Kabul's airport gates led to a tumultuous situation, culminating in the tragic suicide bombing at Abbey Gate. The US left Bagram Airfield in July, but the withdrawal was accelerated and ultimately failed to prevent the Taliban's swift advance. Former President Trump argued that the previous Biden administration's incompetence was the primary cause of the catastrophe, including the loss of America's largest military base and billions of dollars' worth of military equipment.

The Afghanistan withdrawal had significant geopolitical ramifications. It is speculated that the chaos may have emboldened other adversaries, such as Russia, to act with impunity. Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 was seen as a potential response to the perceived weakness of the US. Additionally, civil wars broke out in Sudan and Yemen, seemingly taking advantage of the weakened global order following the Afghanistan fiasco.

The US struggled to maintain its influence and deterrence capabilities in various regions, leaving many questioning whether other countries had learned any lessons from the American withdrawal in Afghanistan.